Written question WQ96459
- Asked by
- Jane DoddsLib Dem
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 9 days
Question
What steps is the Welsh Government taking to address gambling harms as a public health issue?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Welsh Government strongly supports a public health approach to addressing the harms caused by gambling. We know that population-level interventions, as well as direct support for individuals are needed to tackle the health inequalities caused by gambling.
We are working closely with the Scottish and UK Governments to implement the statutory levy on gambling operators that came into effect on 6 April 2025. This will support the gambling prevention and treatment systems we want to establish for Wales. I plan to update Members soon on this work, in addition to how we are working with GambleAware and supporting their important work on tackling stigma.
In relation to gambling advertising and sponsorship, this area is the responsibility of the UK Government, but I continue to press for the industry to operate responsible practices and prevent young and vulnerable people being exposed to gambling advertising.